Tuesday, April 30, 2019

Bailey & Sage in Cambridge's Kendall Square Has Closed; Catering Operation Will Continue

by Marc Hurwitz

A trio of Boston-area cafes is now down to just a pair, as its Cambridge location has closed--though its catering business will remain in place

According to a Facebook post, Bailey & Sage in Kendall Square shut down its cafe yesterday, saying that the closure is "in cooperation with the new development taking place" at the site while mentioning that "our Cambridge catering operations will remain open." It looks like their two cafe locations in downtown Boston (on Federal Street and State Street) will remain in operation.

Bailey & Sage first opened at 5 Cambridge Center in Kendall Square in August of 2014, serving salads, sandwiches, quinoa bowls, and more. The website for the remaining two locations can be found at http://baileyandsage.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Monday, April 29, 2019

1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza in Boston Has Closed

by Marc Hurwitz

A New Jersey-based group of Neapolitan pizza spots has closed its sole Boston location.

Earlier this month, we were told by a source (Geoff Wong) that 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza on Court Street was locked up and dark, with a message sent to us by the business at the time indicating that they were dealing with staffing issues and would announce when the shop might reopen. Today, however, we have been told by another source (Chris from Cool City Entertainment) that it has closed for good, with a photo of a sign out front showing that the pizzeria has closed "permanently."

1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza first opened in August of 2017, offering thin-crust pies cooked for approximately two minutes in a 1,000-degree oven. The chain first started out in 2014, according to its website.

The address for this now-closed pizzeria in downtown Boston was: 1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza, 45 Court Street, Boston, MA, 02108. The website for the business can be found at https://www.1000degreespizza.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Pizzas in the Boston Area]

Craft Beer Cellar in Swampscott and Winchester to Close April 30

by Marc Hurwitz

A local group of specialty beer shops continues to shrink, with two more locations in the Greater Boston area getting ready to shut down.

According to a Facebook post and a tweet, the locations of Craft Beer Cellar in Swampscott and Winchester are closing tomorrow (Tuesday, April 30), with this news coming on the heels of the Roslindale store closing earlier this month and the Fort Point outlet saying farewell this week.
A blog post from the business also mentions that at least eight other locations have recently closed--including one in Framingham--and three others (including Sudbury) are no longer Craft Beer Cellars.

The first Craft Beer Cellar shop opened in Belmont back in 2010.

[Earlier Articles]
Craft Beer Cellar in Roslindale to Close
Craft Beer Cellar in Boston's Fort Point Neighborhood Is Closing

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]




Sweet Waffles & Boba Opens in Boston's Chinatown Neighborhood

by Marc Hurwitz

A new dining spot featuring waffles and bubble tea has come to Boston.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Sweet Waffles & Boba is now open in Chinatown, moving into the old Chatime space on Hudson Street. The post indicates that the shop offers Belgian-style Liege waffles on sticks that come with various options for toppings, and such teas as taro milk and green tea are available along with lemonade blends.

The address for Sweet Waffles & Boba is 18 Hudson Street, Boston, MA, 02111. The Instagram page for the shop can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sweetwafflesandboba/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Cosi Opens at CambridgeSide in East Cambridge

by Marc Hurwitz

A local group of dining spots that went through a rough stretch a few years ago has opened a new location in Cambridge.

According to a source, Cosi is now open at CambridgeSide (formerly the CambridgeSide Galleria), with the website for the business confirming that the eatery is indeed up and running. The website indicates that the new location offers such options as soups, salads, sandwiches, flatbreads, coffee, and more, and it is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

In 2016, Cosi filed for bankruptcy and a few of its shops closed down, including ones in Cambridge's Kendall Square, Boston's Back Bay, and State Street in downtown Boston. Existing locations can be found on Federal Street, High Street, Milk Street, and South Station in the downtown area as well as the Seaport District, Logan Airport, and Charlestown, which is where the chain's headquarters are.

The website for Cosi is at https://www.getcosi.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Friday, April 26, 2019

Kowloon Restaurant in Saugus to Set Up Outdoor Area with Tiki Theme

Last year, a landmark restaurant on Route 1 in Saugus added a new feature to the place--outdoor dining--and now it will be doing the same, but with more of a connection to its interior.

According to an article in the Saugus Advertiser, Kowloon Restaurant has gotten approval by the Saugus Board of Selectmen to set up an outdoor area that includes four Tiki huts along with a 10-seat Tiki bar and with a total seating capacity of 106. This setup will be different from last year, which was basically a simple outside tent with seating, and this year's plans also include "island-style" live music. No opening date has been given as of yet for Kowloon's outdoor area, so keep checking back for updates.

Kowloon, which first opened in 1950, is considered to be one of the top-grossing independent restaurants in New England.

The address for Kowloon is 948 Broadway (Route 1), Saugus, MA, 01906. Its website is at https://www.kowloonrestaurant.com/

[June 19 update: A comment within Kowloon's Facebook page indicates that the outdoor tiki bar should be opening this week.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Outdoor Dining Areas In the Greater Boston Area and Beyond]




Wolfgang's Steakhouse Plans to Open at One Boston Place in Downtown Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a renowned New York-based group of steakhouses will be expanding to the heart of Boston.

A message from @CappyinBoston indicates that Wolfgang's Steakhouse is planning to open at One Boston Place on Washington Street (where it meets State Street and Court Street), with a reference to it on downtownboston.org and an earlier post from CBRE New England seeming to confirming this. Based on its other locations, the new outlet of Wolfgang's could feature a mix of steak, chops, and seafood options along with an extensive wine list.

Wolfgang's Steakhouse started out on Park Avenue in Manhattan in 2004 and now has six locations in New York and New Jersey and one each in Florida, California, and Hawaii as well as ten others overseas. The person behind the restaurants is Wolfgang Zwiener, who worked more than 40 years at the original Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn. The original location has garnered much praise over the years, with Frank Bruni saying in a New York Times review that the "rib-eye steak...was many wonderful things at once, or in rapid succession: crunchy, tender, smoky, earthy. It induced a kind of euphoria," while the porterhouse "demanded awe."

The website for Wolfgang's Steakhouse can be found at http://wolfgangssteakhouse.net/

[June 7 update: A post from Universal Hub indicates that Wolfgang's Steakhouse is one step closer to opening in Boston, as the city's licensing board has approved of its plans while also approving of a liquor license transfer from the now-closed Stephi's in Southie.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Thursday, April 25, 2019

On Deck Burger Bar to Open at Encore Boston in Everett

by Marc Hurwitz

Another spot has been announced for the casino complex in Everett, and this one will offer burgers, beers, cocktails, and more.

According to a press release, On Deck Burger Bar is opening at Encore Boston Harbor resort and casino, with the 3,800-square-foot place having seating for 154, a total of 33 large-screen TVs, and a large fireplace. Some of the offerings at the upcoming dining and drinking spot will include cheesesteak tater tots, a variety of gourmet burgers, a lobster roll, grilled sausage with peppers and onions, and milkshakes--and vegetarian dishes made with ingredients from Impossible Foods will also be available as well. Expect On Deck Burger Bar to open this summer, with its location being on the mezzanine balcony overlooking the casino's gaming floor.

Other restaurants and bars coming to the Encore include Rare Steakhouse, a Chinese spot called Red 8, two Italian restaurants called Sinatra and Fratelli, and an Asian-fusion place called Mystique.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Burgers in the Boston Area and Beyond]




EgaliTea Organic Cafe Is Opening in Boston's Back Bay

by Marc Hurwitz

A new cafe is on its way to the Back Bay of Boston, and it will be a socially-conscious spot that focuses on healthy fare.

According to its website, EgaliTea Organic Cafe is planning to open on Newbury Street, with the upcoming place offering such items as tea, smoothies, bagels, soups, and ice cream, along with chia, acai, yogurt, and oatmeal bowls. The website for the business states that it is a "100% women-led company" whose focus is to "to serve foods and drinks that maximize the balance among people, social equity, and the environment," while ingredients used will be 100% organic and Kosher/fair trade when possible. If all goes as planned, EgaliTea Organic Cafe could be opening sometime this spring.

The address for EgaliTea Organic Cafe is 248 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116. Its website can be found at https://egalitea.business.site/

[July 29 update: Eater Boston states that EgaliTea Organic Cafe is now open.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Winnisimmet Cocktail Lounge Opens at Former Parrotta's Alpine Lodge Site in Chelsea

by Marc Hurwitz

A couple of years ago, we reported that the people behind a highly-rated pizza and pasta spot were going to open a market and a lounge nearby. Now we have learned that the lounge has finally opened, joining both the pizza and pasta place and the now-open market.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, the Winnisimmet Cocktail Lounge is now open in Chelsea, taking over the space where Parrotta's Alpine Lodge had once been. As mentioned earlier, Edson Coimbra and Marvin Posada of Ciao! Pizza & Pasta and Ciao! Market are behind the new dining and drinking establishment, which features food items with Italian influences as well as beer, wine, and cocktails, and while it is only open for dinner right now (and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays), a weekend brunch will be coming at some point.

Ciao! Pizza & Pasta first opened on Williams Street in the fall of 2015, offering wood-fired pizza, freshly-made pasta dishes, panini, salads, and desserts, while Ciao! Market opened on Broadway in the summer of 2017.

The address for this new restaurant and bar in Chelsea is: Winnisimmet Cocktail Lounge, 73 Winnisimmet Street, Chelsea, MA, 02150. Its website can be found at https://www.thewinnisimmet.com/

[Earlier Article]
Owners of Ciao! Pizza & Pasta in Chelsea to Open Ciao! Market, Winnisimmet Lounge

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Mul's Diner in South Boston Faces an Uncertain Future

by Marc Hurwitz

The future of one of Boston's classic old-school diners appears to be up in the air.

According to an article from the Boston Herald, Mul's Diner in South Boston could be losing its home, as a developer is looking to purchase the West Broadway space and build a six-story mixed-use residential complex at the site. The post does indicate that Mul's may remain in business even if the plans go through, with the diner looking at the option to move its breakfast operations across the street to Amrheins which is under the same ownership, and it is possible that it could return to the ground floor of the new development once construction is complete, though developer Michael Moore and Mul's owner Stephen Mulrey are only in talks about this possibility for now.

If Mul's does move its operations to the Amrheins space, it is not sure how long it might stay there, because as we reported earlier (and as Caught in Southie states), the Amrheins site was on the market last year and as of earlier this year, it was apparently under agreement.

Mul's Diner first opened in 1955 while Amrheins has been around since 1890.

[Earlier Article]
Amrheins Site in South Boston Is Under Agreement

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Terry O'Reilly's Pub in Newton Centre Is Closing; Will Be Replaced by Baramor

by Marc Hurwitz

Another Irish pub in the Boston area is getting ready to close for good, and it will be replaced by a brand new restaurant and bar.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Terry O'Reilly's Pub in Newton Centre is shutting down, with a Facebook post from the Union Street spot saying that its final weekend in operation will be May 3-5 and that it will replaced by a "cozy American gastropub" called Baramor. A website and Facebook page have been created for Baramor, but little information on the place has been posted as of yet, so keep checking back for updates.

Terry O'Reilly's Pub first opened in September of 2012, taking over the space where Sabra had been for 35 years; it is one of two Irish pubs to announce closures this week, with the other being The Green Briar in Brighton, which is shutting down early next month as well.

The address for Terry O'Reilly's Pub (and the upcoming Baramor) is 45 Union Street, Newton, MA, 02459. The website for Baramor will be at https://www.baramornewton.com/

[May 13 updaate: A new Facebook post states that Baramor is expected to open on May 15 for dinner service and that its grand opening will take place on May 18.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]

Wednesday, April 24, 2019

Moody's Deli in Waltham Is Closed; Exact Status Unknown

by Marc Hurwitz

Last week, we reported that the person behind an award-winning deli was no longer involved with the place, and now we have learned that the deli has closed, at least for the time being.

According to two sources within the restaurant industry, Moody's Deli in Waltham is shuttered, with one of our sources sending a photo showing a "closed for renovations" sign out front at the Moody Street spot. It is not yet known if The Backroom--which is next door--is also closed, and it is also not known whether the Moody's location in Boston's Back Bay or New England Charcuterie (which is connected to Moody's) is affected as well, nor is it known for sure why Moody's has closed, so keep checking back for updates.

As mentioned earlier, Joshua Smith recently said farewell to Moody's, The Backroom, and New England Charcuterie, and his other business--El Rincon de Moody's--remains closed after shutting down around the beginning of the year.

[April 24 update: Eater Boston states that The Backroom is also closed for now, while both Eater and a source of ours say that the Back Bay location of Moody's is open for business. (Our source also says that New England Charcuterie remains in operation as well.)]

[April 25 update: A Facebook post from The Waltham Channel page mentions that Moody's and The Backroom were shut down by the city because Joshua Smith--and not the company officials who now run the places--is the licensee who is named on the food and liquor licenses but because Smith is no longer involved, the businesses have been operating illegally and cannot serve food or drink. A video sent to us by a source shows the meeting between the company officials and the city, with the video also showing that they have to remain closed until they apply for a license transfer and then get approval to receive the common victualler licenses so they can at least serve food while they are working out the liquor license issue which will take longer. (The owners will also need to change the legal names of the businesses.)]

[May 3 update: The Tables section of the Boston Globe mentions that Moody's in Waltham is planning to reopen and that it will be a "new and expanded" version of the deli that will include a private event space (it is not yet known if the latter will be taking over part or all of The Backroom space). In addition, the adjacent El Rincon de Moody's space will become home to a new restaurant, though no name or concept has been given for it as of yet.]

[Earlier Article]
Joshua Smith No Longer Involved with Moody's, The Backroom, New England Charcuterie

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Tuesday, April 23, 2019

The Green Briar in Brighton Is Closing

by Marc Hurwitz

An Irish pub that has been around for nearly 30 years is shutting down.

According to a source, The Green Briar in Brighton is closing its doors for good, with a note on the pub's website stating that its last day of service will be Monday, May 6. The note says the following:

This was a difficult and sad decision to make. We want to recognize and express sincere appreciation for our staff - some have been with us since the very beginning. Their hard work and dedication to providing warm hospitality was what made the Green Briar so special. We have met with the team regarding the closing date and our priority is to help each employee transfer jobs. To our guests, thank you. We hope to see you and say good-bye before our last day of service.

The Green Briar is one of a number of restaurants and bars from The Briar Group, including such spots as Anthem, City Table, The Harp, Ned Devine's, O'Connor's, and Solas.

The address for The Green Briar is 304 Washington Street, Brighton, MA, 02135.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]




The Bagel Table Is Opening at Boston Landing in Brighton

by Marc Hurwitz

A pair of bagel shops will soon be joined by a third, with this one coming to a new development that has a few other dining spots.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, The Bagel Table is planning to open at Boston Landing in Brighton, joining other locations in Chestnut Hill and Ashland. Based on the offerings at those two shops, expect to see New York-style bagels from OMG! Bagels at the new location, along with cakes, pastries, cookies, English muffins, sandwiches, coffee, and more. If all goes well, The Bagel Table could be opening at Boston Landing late this summer.

Boston Landing, which is located along Guest Street just south of the Mass. Pike, is currently home to such spots as Rail Stop Restaurant and Bar, Kohi Coffee Company, Flatbread Company, and Mainely Burgers.

The website for The Bagel Table can be found at https://www.mybageltable.com/

[January 28, 2020 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page indicates that the new location of The Bagel Table at Boston Landing is now open. {Ed note: A Wayland location is also on the way, possibly this spring.}]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Monday, April 22, 2019

G Pub Being Proposed for Brockton's Downtown Area

by Marc Hurwitz

It appears that a gastropub that would have a retro vibe and a rooftop area is being planned for a city south of Boston that is in the process of redeveloping its downtown area.

Wicked Local is reporting that Colin Geoffroy of G Hospitality is looking to open a location of G Pub in the Corcoran Building (which is being redeveloped into a mixed-use residential complex) in Brockton, joining the original location which can be found in Providence. The article says that the Montello Street spot would have 7,000 square feet of space and have a speakeasy feel to it while having a scratch kitchen, TVs at each of the booths, entertainment such as pool tables, arcade games, and shuffleboard, and a rooftop terrace that is open during the warmer months.

If all goes as planned, the new G Pub could open in the spring or summer of 2020, and it would possibly be a third location of the place, as G Hospitality is planning to open another outlet of the spot in Plymouth this fall. (The restaurant group also runs Rooftop at the ProvidenceG as well.)

The website for the original G Pub in Providence can be found at http://www.providencegpub.com/

[November 1 update: Plans are moving forward with G Pub in Brockton, with a Facebook post mentioning that construction on the place is slated to begin this winter.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]

Bruno's Bar + Burger in Lynn to Become Bruno's Tequila Bar & Cocina

by Marc Hurwitz

A burger spot that temporarily closed a few years ago has apparently closed for good, and it looks like a Mexican restaurant with a somewhat similar name will replace it.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group along with a couple of sources, Bruno's Bar + Burger in Lynn is no longer in business, with this being confirmed within the North Shore Eats Facebook group. Another poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants thread mentions that a new spot called Bruno's Tequila Bar & Cocina is taking over the Western Avenue space, and a Facebook page for the place shows that it will indeed be opening there, classifying itself as a Mexican restaurant and saying that it will be "serving the freshest Mexican and Latin food with rumba and drink of all types!" The poster says that the new spot could be opening sometime next month, though no specific opening date has been given as of yet.

Bruno's Bar + Burger, which first opened in early 2015, closed its doors in August of 2016 but reopened--apparently under new ownership--a couple of months later.

The address for the upcoming Bruno's Tequila Bar & Cocina is 858 Western Avenue, Lynn, MA, 01905. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/brunostequilabar/

[June 19 update: A Facebook post from the place indicates that Bruno's Tequila Bar & Cocina has its grand opening on Saturday, June 22.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Sunset Cafe in Cambridge Plans to Reopen

by Marc Hurwitz

A Portuguese restaurant in Cambridge that was destroyed in a fire earlier this year could be returning to the space.

According to a license commission hearing agenda page within the city's website, the Sunset Cafe plans to reopen once its building at the corner of Cambridge Street and Hunting Street is rebuilt. The building in which the restaurant resided was hit by a major fire on January 14 and it was subsequently torn down due to the extent of the damage to the structure. It is not yet known when construction could be completed, so keep checking back for updates as they come in.

The four-alarm blaze also displaced nearly 20 people and took out a second structure as well.

[Earlier Article]
Sunset Cafe in Cambridge Destroyed in Fire

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




KKatie's Burger Bar in Quincy Has Closed

by Marc Hurwitz

A group of burger bars on the South Shore has gotten a little smaller--for now, at least--as its closest location to Boston has shut down.

A source told us a week ago that KKatie's Burger Bar in Quincy Center was going to be closing, with a thread  from the Quincy Is Everything Facebook group confirming that it has indeed shuttered and that a sign out front at the Hancock Street spot refers customers to its locations in Marshfield, Plymouth, and Hyannis. The note also mentions that the restaurant plans to move "nearby," though it is not known whether it might reopen in Quincy or in another community in the immediate area.

The Quincy location of Kkatie's first opened in December of 2016, moving into a space within the West of Chestnut luxury apartment complex.

The address for the now-closed Kkatie's in Quincy Center was 1440 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA, 02169. The website for the existing locations can be found at http://www.kkaties.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Burgers in the Boston Area and Beyond]




Sunday, April 21, 2019

Gantetsu-Ya Is Opening Across from Ganko Ittetsu Ramen in Brookline

by Marc Hurwitz

The people behind a popular Brookline restaurant will be opening a new spot that focuses on a couple of Japanese snack items.

According to Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting, Gantetsu-Ya is planning to open across from Ganko Ittetsu Ramen in the Arcade Building on the northern edge of Coolidge Corner, with an Instagram post from the place saying that will be featuring takoyaki, or grilled octopus balls, and okonomiyaki, which are savory pancakes. No opening date has been given for the upcoming eatery, with the post simply saying that it will open soon.

Ganko Ittetsu Ramen, which first opened in the fall of 2015, is known for its three types of ramen options--miso, tan tan, and shoyu.

The Instagram page for Gantetsu-Ya is at https://www.instagram.com/gantetsuya3184/

[September 3 update: Eater Boston states that Gantetsu-Ya has opened, though it is only serving takoyaki for now (it will start serving okonomiyaki at some point in the future).]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]

Friday, April 19, 2019

Hot Chix Plans to Open in the Boston Area

by Marc Hurwitz

A fast-casual restaurant that focuses on a Southern-style spicy fried chicken is on its way to the region.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Hot Chix is looking to open somewhere in the Boston area, with current possibilities being such spots as the Berklee area, Boston University, Inman Square in Cambridge, and Union Square in Somerville. The people behind the planned eatery include Alex Kim (general manager at Eventide Fenway), Will Yoo (owner of two Charleys Philly Steaks locations), and Alex Nystedt (former general manager of Sportello), with Nystedt saying that "Boston has a lot of great Korean fried chicken, but it's lacking in the Nashville hot style," which is typically made using a paste that includes cayenne pepper. If all goes well, Hot Chix could be opening sometime this summer--and until then, the business will be popping up at restaurants, bars, and event spaces around the local area.

The website for Hot Chix can be found at https://hotchixboston.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Chicken Dishes from Restaurants in the Boston Area]




Night Market in Cambridge's Harvard Square Has Closed

by Marc Hurwitz

A basement-level Harvard Square restaurant known for its Asian street food has closed for good.

According to an article in Boston Magazine, Night Market on Winthrop Street is no longer in operation, having shuttered at the end of business hours last night. An Instagram post from the place says that "We're saddened to be closing our doors....We are so incredibly grateful to everyone who has been a part of our story - our restaurant staff, our occasional visitors, and all of our wonderful regulars over the years. THANK YOU ALL" No specific reason seems to be given for the closure of Night Market, nor is it known what might go into the space, so keep checking back for updates.

Night Market first opened in late 2014 in the former Tamarind Bay space, offering a variety of Asian dishes along with such drink options as sake cocktails and sake slushies.

The address for the now-closed Night Market was 75 Winthrop Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]




Diner in the Park in Woburn Closes Today

by Marc Hurwitz

A suburban breakfast and lunch spot that caters in part to office workers is shutting down after approximately eight years in business.

According to a source, Diner in the Park in Woburn is closing, saying that it shuts down at the end of this week, and a phone call to the Cummings Park eatery does confirm that today is indeed its last day in operation. The restaurant first opened in the summer of 2011, taking over the space that had once been home to Let's Go Burrito, and the owners had also been behind Grecian Yearning in Allston until a fire forced them to close that spot in 2008.

The address for Diner in the Park is 340 West Cummings Park, Woburn, MA, 01801.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Thursday, April 18, 2019

Pepe's Pizza Plans to Open New Location at Arsenal Yards in Watertown

One of the best-known pizzerias in the country is going to be expanding to a new complex just west of Boston.

According to a source, Pepe's Pizza is planning to open at the Arsenal Yards in Watertown, with an article in the Watertown News saying that a lease has been signed for the restaurant to open at the upcoming development. Once it opens, the new outlet of the New Haven-based pizzeria will join two other Boston-area locations--one at The Shops at Chestnut Hill and a new branch at the Burlington Mall which is expected to open later this month. Pepe's, which started out in 1925, has received numerous accolades over the years, including The Daily Meal awarding it best pizza in the United States in 2017.

Arsenal Yards will be located at the site of the old Arsenal Mall in East Watertown, with the mixed-use development having retail, office, and residential space. Some restaurants announced for the complex include Condesa Restaurante Mexicano, Shake Shack, Pokeworks, and City Works Eatery and Pour House.

The website for Pepe's Pizza can be found at https://pepespizzeria.com/

[August 7, 2020 update: The Tables section of The Boston Globe states that Pepe's Pizza opens its new location at Arsenal Yards on Monday, August 17, though only for takeout/delivery for now.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston)


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Pizzas in the Boston Area]


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Only One Jamaican Restaurant Is Opening in the Former D'Angelo Space in Hyde Park

by Marc Hurwitz

A third location of a Jamaican restaurant is on its way to the local area, and this one will be taking over the space where a location of a chain of sandwich shops had been.

Universal Hub is reporting that Only One Jamaican Restaurant is opening in Hyde Park, moving into the former D'Angelo space on Hyde Park Avenue. Once it opens, the new eatery will join others in Dorchester and Brockton, and based on those locations, it appears that this one will focus at least in part on takeout. An Eater Boston article mentions that the new outlet of Only One could open in June and that it will feature such items as curry goat, fried chicken, curry shrimp, beef patties, and oxtail.

The address for this Jamaican spot in Hyde Park is: Only One Jamaican Restaurant, 1345 Hyde Park Avenue, Hyde Park, MA, 02136.

[December 13 update: A Facebook post from Hyde Park Main Streets indicates that Only One Jamaican Restaurant in Hyde Park plans to have a grand opening on Saturday, December 21. (Thanks to Universal Hub for bringing this to our attention.)]

[December 26 update: A Facebook post from the place confirms that Only One Jamaican Restaurant is now officially open in Hyde Park.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Borealis Yoga in Medford to Move, Include Cafe within Space

by Marc Hurwitz

A yoga studio north of Boston is going to be moving, and its new space will include a place for food, coffee, and more.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Borealis Yoga in Medford is in the process of moving from its current home on Salem Street to a new spot on High Street, with a Facebook post from the business showing that a cafe will be located upstairs and including couches, tables, stools, and a counter, while offerings are expected to include rice bowls, baked goods, coffee, tea, and chai. A YouTube video attached to the post mentions that Borealis Yoga plans to open sometime this spring, though no specific opening date has been given as of yet.

The address for the original location of Borealis Yoga is 34 Salem Street, while the new address will be 28 High Street. The website for the business can be found at https://borealisyoga.com/

[October 17 update: A new YouTube video indicates that the new location of Borealis Yoga (and its cafe) could be opening in the next week or so.]

[February 13, 2020 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentions (via a Medford Community Coalition page) that Borealis Yoga is open in its new space, but the cafe has not yet opened and no opening date has been given as of yet.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Ruth's Chris Steak House Plans to Open New Location at Assembly Row in Somerville

by Marc Hurwitz

A chain of upscale steakhouses is opening its third Boston-area location, with this one coming to a growing development just north of the city.

An email sent to us today indicates that Ruth's Chris is going to be opening at Assembly Row in Somerville, moving into a space in the Partners Healthcare building (apparently the ground floor). The upcoming restaurant will have 8,100 square feet of space and seating for approximately 240 people, along with an outdoor patio that may have seating for as many as 50. It is not known when the new location of Ruth's Chris might open, so keep checking back for updates.

Currently, local outlets of Ruth's Chris can be found on School Street in downtown Boston and Totten Pond Road in Waltham; the only other location in New England is in Newington, CT, just south of Hartford.

The website for Ruth's Chris Steak House can be found at https://www.ruthschris.com/

[August 22 update: According to an article from MassLive, the new location of Ruth's Chris at Assembly Row is slated to open in November.]

[November 22 update: The Tables section of The Boston Globe states that Ruth's Chris opens at Assembly Row on Monday, November 25.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

La Dolda Pasta Shop Is Opening in Lexington

by Marc Hurwitz

Back in 2017, we mentioned that a pasta shop in Texas had closed down and was planning to move to the Greater Boston area. Now we have learned where it will be opening.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, La Dolda is opening in Lexington Center, with a check on the website for the business indicating that it will be moving into the space on Mass. Ave. where Great Harvest Bread Co. had been until 2016, when the bakery moved to East Lexington. Based its website, La Dolda--which had been located in Austin--will offer a variety of gourmet pasta items along with salads.

The address for this new pasta shop in Lexington Center is: La Dolda, 1736 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA, 02420. Its website can be found at https://www.ladolda.com/

[April 29, 2020 update: According to a source (Jeff Kwan), La Dolda is now open in Lexington, with a Facebook post from the place indicating that its production facility is actually in Bedford while its retail store resides in Lexington.]

[Earlier Article]
La Dolda Pasta Shop in Austin Plans to Move to Boston

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Wednesday, April 17, 2019

Parlour Restaurant + Bar Is Opening in the Former Regal Beagle Space in Brookline's Coolidge Corner

by Marc Hurwitz

A new dining and drinking spot is on its way to Brookline, moving into the space where a neighborhood bistro had been.

According to Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting, Parlour Restaurant + Bar is opening in the old Regal Beagle space in the Coolidge Corner neighborhood, with a sign out front simply saying that the place will be coming soon to the Harvard Street space. A search on the new spot comes up with no information at this point in time, including what kinds of food/drink it might offer, who is behind it, and when exactly it will open; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update here.

The Regal Beagle closed down last October after being in business for approximately 10 years; the restaurant was known in part for its comfort food dishes and cocktails.

The address for Parlour Restaurant + Bar is 308 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA, 02446. Its website will be at http://parlourbrookline.com/

[July 12 update: The Brookline TAB/Wicked Local is reporting that Parlour Restaurant + Bar opens later today in Coolidge Corner, and that the owner of the place is Meghan Murphy while the chef is Stacy Cogswell, who has worked at such places as RFK Kitchen, Liquid Art House, and Barcelona, and who was a contestant on Season 12 of Bravo's "Top Chef" which took place in Boston.]

[July 18 update: The Patch gives bit more information on Parlour, saying that both Meghan Murphy and Luke Hayden are the owners, with the place being open initially for dinner only, though brunch will be added at some point. Offerings include such items as buffalo broccoli with celery and bleu cheese, Nantucket blood clams, BBQ chicken, steak frites, veal Milanese, tofu with carrots, and Nashville hot chicken donuts.]

[Earlier Article]
The Regal Beagle in Brookline's Coolidge Corner Is Closing

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Woods Hill at Pier 4 Is Opening in Boston's Seaport District

by Marc Hurwitz

Back in 2017, we reported that one of Boston's most iconic restaurant spaces would become home to a new dining spot and that the person behind a suburban farm-to-table restaurant would be opening the place. Now we have learned more about it as it gets ready to open.

According to a post on her website, Kristin Canty of Woods Hill Table and Adelita in West Concord will be opening Woods Hill at Pier 4 on the Boston waterfront, with the restaurant being an "urbane take" on the original location and "honoring the [Anthony's Pier 4] legacy by providing the Seaport a convivial atmosphere, warm hospitality and sustainably caught seafood." The Pier 4 site indicates that the residential development hopes to open this spring, so the new location of Woods Hill could be opening sometime in the next month or two.

Woods Hill at Pier 4 will be located at the old site of Anthony's Pier 4, which closed for good in the summer of 2013 after being in business for approximately 50 years; the restaurant was once one of the most profitable dining spots in the United States and attracted a variety of celebrities.

[November 14 update: Based on an earlier Tables article in The Boston Globe, Woods Hill at Pier 4 may be on the verge of opening, as the post says it could debut in mid-November.]

[November 20 update: Eater Boston states that Woods Hill at Pier 4 opens on November 26, confirming what The Passionate Foodie had told us earlier.]

[Earlier Article]
New Restaurant from Woods Hill Table Owner Coming to Former Anthony's Pier 4 Site on the Boston Waterfront

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Purple Shell Is Opening in Former Stephi's in Southie Space in South Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

Last June, we reported that a local group of upscale comfort food spots had closed one of its locations, and now we have learned what will be taking over the space.

According to a source, Purple Shell is opening this summer in the former Stephi's in Southie Space in South Boston, with a sign out front indicating that the West Broadway eatery will be an Asian fusion tapas spot. A search for more information on the place shows that Gan Quan Chen--who has a Braintree address--is behind the restaurant, and he also goes by the name Jerry Chen. It is not yet known if this is the same Jerry Chen who has been involved with such spots as ZC Boston in the South End, Gourmet Garden in Canton, and Sushi Joy in Plymouth; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update here.

Stephi's in Southie was one of what had been three Stephi's/Stephanie's locations, including the recently-closed Stephi's on Tremont as well as Stephanie's on Newbury, which remains in operation.

The address for Purple Shell is 11 West Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its website will be at https://www.purpleshellboston.com/

[February 25, 2020 update: According to a source, Purple Shell opens on Thursday, February 27, with an Instagram post from the place confirming this. In addition, its website indicates that the restaurant will feature dishes with Southeast Asian influences, and will also have a sushi bar.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Nightshade Noodle Bar to Open in Lynn

by Marc Hurwitz

The person behind a pop-up restaurant that focuses in part on noodles is going to be opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant.

According to an article in Boston Magazine, chef Rachel Miller is opening Nightshade Noodle Bar in Lynn, with the restaurant getting its name from her Nightshade pop-up which has done a number of dinners, events, and series over the past couple of years, including at some of the best-known restaurants in the Boston area. Expect to see Vietnamese-influenced dishes including noodles, shellfish, sandwiches, and more at the 26-seat restaurant, which will also include a bar area and will be open for both lunch and dinner. An exact address has not yet been given for Nightshade Noodle Bar, but it will be located somewhere on Exchange Street in the downtown section of Lynn.

If all goes as planned, Nightshade Noodle Bar could be opening later this summer.

The website for Nightshade can be found at https://www.nightshadens.com/

[October 15 update: A new article from Boston Magazine indicates that Nightshade Noodle Bar opens on Wednesday, October 23.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Monday, April 15, 2019

The Groove to Open at Hojoko in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

by Marc Hurwitz

A Tokyo-style record bar is on its way to the Fenway, opening within an eclectic hotel restaurant and bar that also focuses on music.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, The Groove at Hojoko is planning to debut this Friday (April 19) in Hojoko's heated front porch space that up until now has been used for dining/drinking and private events. The post says that the lounge will take its cue from vinyl bars found in Japan that offer snacks, drinks, and analog music, and it will include bring-your-own vinyl nights, DJs, live music, and more.

Tim and Nancy Cushman, who are behind both The Groove and Hojoko, also run the award-winning o ya in Boston's Leather District, and they are opening a new spot in Chestnut Hill along with two stalls at the upcoming Time Out Market in the Fenway.

The address for The Groove at Hojoko is 1271 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for Hojoko can be found at http://www.hojokoboston.com/


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Joshua Smith No Longer Involved with Moody's, The Backroom, New England Charcuterie

by Marc Hurwitz

The person behind an award-winning deli, a restaurant and wine bar, and a meat-processing plant has said farewell to all of the businesses.

The Boston Globe confirms what a source had told us earlier this month, that Joshua Smith is no longer affiliated with Moody's Deli, The Backroom, or New England Charcuterie, all of which are located in Waltham (another Moody's can be found in Boston's Back Bay). We had reached out to Smith when we first heard the news but never received a response, while the Globe quotes him as simply saying "I'm starting a new project and focusing on family." It is not known what the new project might be, nor is it known if there are any other reasons why Smith left the businesses; if we find any further information, we will post an update here.

Another spot that Smith was involved in--El Rincon de Moody's--suddenly closed around the beginning of the year and remains shuttered; that restaurant, along with Moody's Deli and The Backroom are all located within the same block on Moody Street in Waltham.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Hungry Coyote Is Opening in Needham

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like not one, but two Mexican restaurants will be opening in a western suburb of Boston.

According to an article from The Needham Times, Hungry Coyote is planning to open on Highland Avenue in the former Orange Leaf space, with the restaurant having a connection to Hungry Coyote in Whitman, as head chef Francisco Mendez manages that dining spot as well as Avocados Mexican Taqueria in Stoughton. The post says that Mendez, owner Matthew Saiia, and manager Leona Leon (who is the wife of Mendez) are looking to have a counter-service area by the entrance and a full-service restaurant in the back that includes alcohol, with the place being open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If all goes as planned, Hungry Coyote hopes to open sometime in July.

As reported earlier, another Mexican restaurant called Pancho's Taqueria also plans to open on Highland Avenue as well; currently, a location of that dining spot can be found in Dedham.

The address for the new Hungry Coyote in Needham is 1185 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA, 02492.

[August 12 update: Based on multiple Facebook posts, Hungry Coyote has gone through a soft opening and someone who says that she works at the place mentions on the Needham, MA Facebook group page that its official opening takes place today.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




The Treasury to Open in the Former Bonefish Grill Space in Burlington

by Marc Hurwitz

A gourmet Indian restaurant is coming to the northern suburbs of Boston, and it moving into the space where a location of a seafood chain had once been.

According to a post from the Burlington Cable Access Television website, The Treasury is planning to open at Wayside Commons in the former Bonefish Grill space, with the new dining spot including menu items that are made in a stone cooking pot, traditional clay ovens, an open barbecue, and a griddle while higher-end wine and liquor options will also be offered. If all goes as planned, The Treasury could be opening late this spring.

The Burlington location of Bonefish Grill closed down around the beginning of 2017, with the two remaining Boston-area outlets in Waltham and Westwood subsequently shuttering as well; the closest location of the chain is now in Poughkeepsie, NY.

The address for this upcoming Indian restaurant in Burlington is: The Treasury, 4 Wayside Road, Burlington, MA, 01803.

[November 10 update: A Craigslist job post mentions that The Treasury plans to open late this year, and that it will be a "dual concept," including both fine classic Indian cuisine and Mediterranean Greek-inspired fare.]

[February 19, 2020 update: A Facebook events page indicates the The Treasury plans to have its grand opening on March 1.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Thursday, April 11, 2019

Red White Japanese Vegan to Open in Boston's Back Bay

by Marc Hurwitz

A new lunch spot is on its way to the Back Bay, and it will focus on healthy food options.

According to an article in Boston Magazine, Red White Japanese Vegan is planning to open on Newbury Street, with the restaurant featuring customizable rice bowls that include a variety of toppings and sauces, while smoothies will be available as well. The post mentions that owner Toc Kobayashi has run a number of dining spots in Japan and that his hope is to open more locations of this quick-service/takeout concept if things go well.

Red White Japanese Vegan will debut this Saturday (April 13) at noon, according to Boston Magazine.

The address for this upcoming dining spot in the Back Bay is: Red White Japanese Vegan, 294 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/RedWhiteVegan/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]




La Pescheria Is Opening within Eataly Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

A new restaurant featuring Italian dishes and seafood is on its way to Boston, and it will be located in right the middle of a massive food emporium.

According to a press release, La Pescheria is opening on April 26 inside Eataly at the Prudential Center, taking over the space that has been home to the Il Tartufo e Il Vino popup truffle spot for the past several months, and before that, Il Pesce. The email mentions that La Pescheria will focus on three-course meals featuring modern Italian fare and seafood sourced by local businesses, and wine will be available along with a rotating list of cocktails. Some of the offerings will include oysters, Rhode Island calamari with cashew crema and lemon, fish stew with garlic toast and sambuca, and black bass crudo with radish and almonds.

The website for Eataly Boston can be found at https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/boston/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]




Marao's Burgers Opens in Framingham

by Marc Hurwitz

An Everett dining spot that is known in part for its Brazilian burgers has expanded to the western suburbs of Boston.

According to a source, Marao's Burgers has opened in Framingham, with an article from the Framingham Source confirming that the Hollis Street eatery is now open. The new restaurant joins its original location on Broadway in Everett, and based on the menu at that location, expect to see burgers, hot dogs, wings, Brazilian pub food, and more at the new spot.

The address for this new restaurant in Framingham is: Marao's Burgers, 61 Hollis Street, Framingham, MA, 01702. The website for the original location in Everett can be found at https://www.maraosburger.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Fifteen Burgers in the Boston Area and Beyond]




P.F. Chang's at CambridgeSide in East Cambridge Has Closed

by Marc Hurwitz

A chain of Chinese restaurants continues to disappear from the Boston-area landscape, with another location recently shutting down.

According to a Facebook post from Beckie Hunter, P.F. Chang's at CambridgeSide in East Cambridge is no longer in operation, with a message sent from the chain confirming that it has indeed closed for good. It appears that only three locations now remain open in the Greater Boston area, including at Boston's Park Plaza, Legacy Place in Dedham, and the Natick Mall in Natick; two other outlets have shuttered over the past couple of years, with ones at the Prudential Center and the Northshore Mall in Peabody both closing in the spring of 2017.

P.F. Chang's first started out approximately 25 years ago in Arizona and now has about 200 locations in the United States; the website for the chain can be found at https://www.pfchangs.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]